Monterey Peninsula Buddhist Temple

05/27/2026

To apologize sincerely is an important part of every relationship.

When apologizing, it is important not to focus only on your own perspective or intention. Rather than simply explaining yourself, please try to understand what kind of pain or disappointment the other person experienced. An apology is not only about admitting fault; it is also an attempt to reconnect hearts and restore a relationship.

Once, I encountered a Buddhist saying:
“The words we speak come either from our own self-centered heart or from the Buddha’s compassionate heart.”

As long as we are only trying to protect ourselves, genuine communication cannot happen. Therefore, to apologize sincerely, we must also open our hearts and be willing to listen to the response.

In Gassho,

05/24/2026

In the gravesite for Memorial Day, I want to note some words believing in that still resonates with our hearts today.

{A message in 1967, preached by Rev. Kyoshiro Tokunaga}

To many young people some of the names inscribed on the headstones may not bring clear images of the deceased people.

Many, even, may not see how they related to those who died decades ago.

However, it does not require much imagination to understand that they themselves are related closely for they owe their well-being and even their lives to those who had passed on.

05/20/2026

There is nothing shameful about accepting help. In fact, much of our life already depends on the support of countless others.

05/15/2026

What is the proper posture to listen to someone’s talk?

Can we really listen to what they say whereas listening is the foundation of conversations?

In Jodo Shinshu, listening is the basic skill to hear the Buddha’s wish. Whether we can have a meaningful dialog or not accounts for our attitude of listening.

In Gassho,

05/06/2026

As we grow older, we may feel our parents’ love less directly. But in another sense, their true care becomes visible when we reflect on how we have come to be here today.

04/29/2026

Frustration arises when life doesn’t go the way we want.

What are we really frustrated about? Often, it’s embarrassment—feeling inadequate or awkward.

Trying to “trim ourselves into shape” doesn’t truly help. As Hōnen taught, peace comes from accepting our foolish selves as they are.

The future may not unfold as we expect. Still, in the end, all’s well that ends well.

04/22/2026

Advise From Priest

We learn that gratitude arises from a humble awareness in our lives.

Whether we notice them or not, these unseen supports are always present in each moment.

From Genza’s story, we can reflect what we usually overlook.

04/16/2026

Even if we try to expand our awareness, we cannot fully see or respond to all suffering.

04/10/2026

🌸 Hanamatsuri Service Announcement 🌸

On this special day, we gather to reflect on the Buddha’s appearance in this world and to express our gratitude for the Dharma that guides our lives. During the service, we will perform the traditional kanbutsu-e (sweet tea offering) and have the opportunity to participate in sange by scattering flower petals in celebration.

Our Dharma School Students will incorporate the leading service chair at this time.

📅 Date: Sunday on April 12, 2026
🕘 Time: 10 a.m.

Let us come together to honor the Buddha’s birth and receive the gentle light of wisdom and compassion.

All are welcome.

In Gassho 🙏

04/08/2026